Catalytic Applications of Carbon Nanodots

Volume: 12 | Issue: 01 | Year 2026 | Subscription
International Journal of Composite Materials and Matrices
Received Date: 02/11/2026
Acceptance Date: 02/16/2026
Published On: 2026-03-21
First Page: 9
Last Page: 14

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By: Aapasthamba Govindasamy R. and Indra Neel Pulidindi.

MBBS Student, Department of Ear, Nose and Throat, Saveetha Medical College (SMC) and Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Assistant Professor, Department of Ear, Nose and Throat, Saveetha Medical College (SMC) and Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

Carbon nanodots (CNDs) owing to their hydrophilicity and multifunctionality and with ultrasmall size exhibit metal-like properties resulting in astounding catalytic performance. These nanostructures, typically less than 10 nm in diameter, possess unique physicochemical and electronic characteristics including tunable photoluminescence, high surface-to-volume ratio, abundant surface functional groups, and excellent electron transfer capabilities. Such properties have driven extensive global research into their application in heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis. Recent advances in synthesis techniques have enabled the production of carbon nanodots with controlled size, morphology, and surface chemistry, thereby enhancing their catalytic efficiency. Carbon nanodots exhibit exceptional performance as standalone catalysts, co-catalysts, and catalyst supports in photocatalytic degradation, electrocatalytic reactions, environmental remediation, and organic transformations. Their compatibility with green chemistry principles, low toxicity, and derivation from renewable precursors further enhance their significance in sustainable catalytic processes. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the catalytic applications of carbon nanodots, with emphasis on mechanistic insights, structure–property relationships, hybrid catalytic systems, and emerging global research trends. The discussion highlights recent developments in photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, environmental catalysis, and synthetic chemistry, while also addressing challenges and prospects in this rapidly evolving field of nanocatalysis. Overall, CNDs are an ideal metal substitute in catalysis and nanotechnology. Their roles in electrocatalysis, namely, energy conversion and energy storage devices are unavoidable and exemplary. In almost all areas of energy sources, including biorefineries, CNDs are actively integrating with the catalysts and biocatalysts used in transesterification of lipids and fermentation of carbohydrates.

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How to cite this article: Aapasthamba Govindasamy R. and Indra Neel Pulidindi Catalytic Applications of Carbon Nanodots. International Journal of Composite Materials and Matrices. 2026; 12(01): 9-14p.

How to cite this URL: Aapasthamba Govindasamy R. and Indra Neel Pulidindi, Catalytic Applications of Carbon Nanodots. International Journal of Composite Materials and Matrices. 2026; 12(01): 9-14p. Available from:https://journalspub.com/publication/ijcmm/article=26023

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